Starting June 1, only Mylar balloons will be allowed into Intermountain Health Care's Utah County hospitals, and visitors bringing latex balloons will be asked to return them to their car.
The new policy is designed to protect patients and hospital staff from the danger of choking and allergic reactions to latex. Mylar balloons do not pose the same problems and will be allowed in patient rooms.The new balloon policy will be effective at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center, American Fork Hospital and Orem Community Hospital.
"This is simply a public health issue, and we are acting in the interests of our patients and staff, " said Terri Walker, employee health coordinator at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center.
Hospital officials said latex is used by health-care professionals during medical care, so it is important that patients and caregivers are protected against unnecessary exposure from balloons.
A person allergic to latex may have symptoms ranging from hives and swelling to respiratory failure. Most at risk are patients who require several medical procedures and hospital staff who use materials such as gloves and catheter tubing.
Officials say that latex balloons are also the leading cause of pediatric choking deaths from children's products in the United States. First-aid efforts such as the Heimlich maneuver will not always dislodge the balloon.
"Parents should not allow latex balloons around small children," said Carolyn Shumway, pediatrics manager. "They pose a significant danger at home, as well as in the hospital."